Palisades-Kepler State Park is one of Iowa’s most underrated state parks. While other parks may get more attention, this one is brimming with natural beauty and is just waiting to be explored. It may be a little bit off the beaten path, but with a gorgeous beach, a cave, and miles of scenic hiking trails it’s well worth the drive.
This picture is owned by Staci Schiltz
Palisades-Kepler State Park is located along the Cedar River, and covers 840 acres of wilderness. The winding drive through the park reveals deep ravines, exposed rocks and an abundance of wildlife.
This picture is owned by Harry Ortiz
Palisades-Kepler State Park is also important for its prehistoric past. A molar tooth of a mammoth was once found here and the exposed rocks along the Cedar River are laden with fossils from millions of years ago. The park was also a popular place for Native Americans, as Indian mounds have been found within the park.
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Palisades-Kepler is a wonderful place to hike, with six miles of trails, walkers can often see a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Many species of trees, shrubs and flowers are also present along with innumerable species of songbirds.
This picture is owned by Linda Stohler-Enearl
The Cedar Cliff Trail will take you along the Cedar River and offers breathtaking views from high above. The trail provides great views of the exposed rocks along the Cedar River and are laden with fossils millions of years old.
This picture is owned by Linda Stohler-Enearl
The campground at Palisades-Kepler is a great place for a weekend outing or a two-week vacation. The campground has 44 campsites, 26 with electrical hookups, with modern shower and restroom facilities.
This picture is owned by Harry Ortiz
Palisades-Kepler also has four family cabins available for weekly rentals during the summer season and two day minimum rentals in the spring and fall. The cabins, which can accommodate up to four persons, feature a shower, restroom, stovetop and refrigerator. Cabin users must provide their own bedding, towels and other camping items. The cabins are a great place for an economical family vacation.
This picture is owned by Ashley Foster
Palisades-Kepler State Park is absolutely beautiful, and the views within the park will win you over again and again.
This picture is owned by Ashley Foster
The park is located just a few miles outside the scenic and charming town of Mt. Vernon, where you can catch a quick meal or visit the local shops. Palisades-Kepler State Park is located at 700 Kepler Dr., Mt Vernon, IA. To rent a cabin, call 1-877-IAPARKS. For more information click here.
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